canonsuch

Canonsuch is a genus of extinct crocodilians that lived during the Paleocene epoch. These ancient reptiles are known from fossil remains found in the United States. The genus was first described by paleontologist George Gaylord Simpson in 1930, who named it Canonsuch for its association with the Cannonball Formation. The type species is Canonsuch pattersoni.

Fossils of Canonsuch indicate it was a medium-sized crocodilian, with estimates suggesting an adult length of around 2 to 3 meters. Its skull morphology shows characteristics typical of early crocodilians, with a relatively broad snout. The teeth were conical and suited for grasping prey. Canonsuch likely inhabited freshwater environments such as rivers and swamps, preying on fish, small mammals, and other vertebrates.

The discovery of Canonsuch provides valuable insights into the diversity and evolution of crocodilians following the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event. Its presence in the Cannonball Formation helps paleontologists reconstruct the ecosystems of North America during the early Paleocene, a period of significant faunal turnover and recovery. The genus is part of the broader superfamily Alligatoroidea, which includes modern alligators and caimans. Studying Canonsuch contributes to our understanding of how these reptiles adapted and diversified in the post-dinosaur world.